Marlon Wayans Reveals the Wayans Family Film That Changed Everything
Marlon Wayans shares why his brother Keenen Ivory Wayans' cult classic "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka" stands out as his top pick, reflecting on its influence on his own path and the Wayans family's Hollywood legacy.
Growing up in a family as deeply rooted in entertainment as the Wayans, Marlon Wayans never lacked for inspiration. With siblings like Shawn, Damon Sr., Damon Jr., Kim, and Dwayne all making their marks in television and film, the Wayans name has become synonymous with comedy and creativity. Yet, among this talented group, Keenen Ivory Wayans stands out as the trailblazer who first broke into Hollywood, opening doors for the rest of the family.
Keenen Ivory Wayans: The Pioneer
Keenen Ivory Wayans is widely recognized for his work both in front of and behind the camera. He’s perhaps best remembered for directing "Scary Movie, " which, for a time, held the record as the highest-grossing film directed by a Black American. But before that, he made waves with "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka," a film that would become a cornerstone for the Wayans legacy. Marlon, reflecting on his favorite films, didn’t hesitate to spotlight this particular project.
“I was eight years old when Keenen sent me that script, ”
Marlon recalled.
“I [had] never laughed so hard. It inspired me. I knew that was what I wanted to do. It’s really my number one – I mean, I think it’s crazy if I put my brother as number one. You’d think I was being biased, of which I probably am, but I’m not, because I really love that movie and my brother. I think he’s a brilliant genius.”
"I'm Gonna Git You Sucka": A Family Milestone
Released in 1988, "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka" was written, directed, and headlined by Keenen. The story follows a soldier who returns home after his younger brother’s death, determined to take down a notorious crime boss. The film pays tribute to the Blaxploitation era of the 1970s, blending satire and homage in a way that resonated with many Black viewers, even if critics were divided. For Marlon, who made a brief cameo at just 16, the movie was more than just a family project—it was a turning point that shaped his ambitions.
Launching a Legacy
The impact of "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka" went far beyond its initial release. Its commercial success caught the attention of Fox, leading them to approach Keenen about creating a new show. His vision was to craft a sketch comedy series that would serve as a Black counterpart to "Saturday Night Live." The result was "In Living Color," a groundbreaking show that not only launched the careers of several Wayans siblings but also introduced audiences to stars like Jamie Foxx and Jim Carrey.
For Marlon, calling "I'm Gonna Git You Sucka" his favorite isn’t just about family pride. It’s about recognizing the film that set the stage for a new era in comedy and opened doors for so many, both inside and outside the Wayans family.